Ghana High Commission
19 East 47th Street,New York,NY 10017
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Events In Ghana
The centuries-old traditions of the people of Ghana and the diversity of the distinct ethnic groups have created a rich culture that is the splendid legacy of modern Ghana.
To the people of Ghana, the traditions of their ancestors are still an important part of daily life. Customary leaders have historical authority over tribal and family matters, and customary lands are an important heritage.
Important events in life are marked by special rites and rituals. Child naming, puberty initiations, marriage and death are marked by family ceremonies, while seasonal festivals bring a whole people or clan together in spectacular fashion.
A common feature is the belief in the Supreme Being, in life after death and in the nearness of dead ancestors. Festivals also recall past events, and consecrate a new season with confidence and hope.
Traditional fetish shrines, sometimes concealed but more often displayed, are important centres of worship and traditional healing, and an influential part of traditional life.
Of special significance are the Posuban shrines, particular to the Fante communities in Southern Ghana. Fanciful buildings lavishly decorated with folk art, they are religious centres for Fante warrior organisations.
Many festivals include thrilling durbars of chiefs, when tribal leaders and Queen Mothers process in decorated palanquins, shaded by traditional umbrellas, and supported by drummers and warrior discharging ancient muskets.
In Ashanti, the Adae and Akwasidae festivals vividly bring the splendour of the Asante kingdom to life, when the Ashantehene (King), adorned in all his gold regalia, comes out to receive the homage of his people. The Asantehenes dancers, praise-singers and horn-blowers surround the King and his procession, in a never-to-be-forgotten spectacle. The dates of many festivals are determined by traditional calendars, often decided close to the event.

Major Events

FestivalMonthTown&Region
Edina Buronya New Year Elmina, Central
Adae and Akwasidae Every six weeks throughout the yearKumasi, Ashanti
Ngmayen March/AprilOdumase, Eastern
Gologo MarchUpper East
Dipo DipoKrobo Odumasi, Eastern
AboakyerMayWinneba, Central
Bakatue JulyElmina, Central
Asafotufiam/td> July/AugustAda
Odambea AugustSaltpond, Central
Damba AugustUpper West
Kumdum August/NovemberWestern
Homowo August/SeptemberAccra
Fetu Afahye SeptemberCape Coast, Central
Kobine SeptemberUpper West
Odwira September/OctoberAkropong, Aburi Eastern
Hogbetsotso NovemberAnloga, Volta

Public Holidays

HolidayDate
New Year's Day 1st January
Eid ul Fitr Variable (As the position of the Moon (Ramadan Festival) determines the day it is celebrated)
Independence Day 6th March
Good FridayVariable
Easter Monday Variable
Eid ul Adha 70 days (10 weeks) from Eid ul Fitr (Festival of Sacrifice)
Workers' Day 1st May
Africa Day 25th May
Republic Day 1st July
Farmers' Day 1st Friday in December
Christmas Day 25th December
Boxing Day 26th December